We have roughly 90 days until ‘the changing of the guard’ at Rotary clubs around the globe - a tradition that dates back to 1913 when the fiscal year was set to end on June 30 to facilitate better financial reporting and organize delegates for conventions!
And with that ‘new year’ comes many new faces in leadership positions. So, it’s only appropriate that July is often referred to as "New Leadership Month," allowing for a standard, global transition period for service projects and leadership.
With that, now is a good time for incoming Public Image Chairs and their committee members to get a head start on ‘taking inventory’ of their club’s practices. That doesn’t necessarily mean changing anything; more importantly, it means becoming familiar with standard practices (or possibly introducing new methods) that increase public awareness and perceptions of your club.
A great start is The New Year Audit for anyone handling social media posts, website updates, or print material (flyers, business cards, email signatures, etc.) for your club and your membership.
It’s not too overwhelming (the last thing we need, right?!?) and is a great place to start!
I’m working with our Zone 25b-29/Region 36 Rotary Public Image Coordinator, Patrick Harrison, on bringing a training to District 5650…sooner than later!
We’re not sure if it will be in person, online, or a combination of both… but we’re sure we’re going to do it!
In the meantime, if you have any questions or need some direction, please let me know.
Jill Thomas
District 5650 Public Image Chair ‘26-’27
402.677.0111